What are my folding options?

If you’re looking for brochures and handouts, folding is a common way to compress a lot of information into a compact space. But what options are available? Below are five of the most common folding options for print projects.

Z-Fold

This is a common three-panel, or tri-fold, brochure format, in which the pieces zigzag fold into an accordion shape. When laid on its side, the paper seems to form a “Z” shape, hence the name. This fold is best when you many sections of information because the folds give you natural divisions.

C-Fold

Possibly the most common format for standard tri-fold brochures, the right panel folds under the left panel. This fold gives you one large design area for information and a couple of smaller areas.

Off-Center Fold

If you’re looking for a more customized version of a three-panel brochure, try an off-center fold. The front panel is a shorter width, allowing part of the right panel to show even when the brochure is completely folded. This is great when you want your piece to stand out a little more. Feel free to get creative with the design of what peeks out!

Gate Fold

A more unique alternative to the traditional three-panel format for tri-folds. In this four-panel design, the outermost panels fold inward, then the whole piece is folded in half once more. This fold gives you a large and a medium-sized area for design, so it’s great when you have two main sections of information.

French Fold

Commonly used for posters, a piece is folded in half, then folded in half again perpendicular to the first fold.

These are just the most common options, but other custom options may be available as well. If you’re interested in exploring more unique folds, please drop POD Print a line and we’d love to discuss the possibilities!